Introduction
At Love With Recipes, we pride ourselves on providing detailed, authentic, and thoroughly explained recipes that inspire both seasoned cooks and culinary novices alike. Today’s dish, Schinken-Hack-Rouladen (Ham and Minced Meat Roulades), is a traditional German comfort food that combines savory ground meat with tender ham, melted cheese, and a rich, creamy sauce. Whether served as a main course for family dinners or for special occasions, these roulades offer a hearty, satisfying flavor profile and a pleasing presentation that makes them a true crowd-pleaser. This recipe is rooted in classic techniques but includes tips and tricks to ensure perfect results every time, making it a reliable choice for your repertoire.
Needed Equipment
- Mixing bowls (large and small)
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Grater (for cheese, if needed)
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Cooking twine or toothpicks (wooden sticks)
- Baking dish or shallow ovenproof casserole
- Whisk or fork (for mixing sauce)
- Aluminum foil (optional, for covering)
Tags
German cuisine, Comfort food, Meat dishes, Baked entrees, Family-friendly, Hearty, Cheese, Simple recipes
Serving Size
This recipe yields approximately 7 small roulades, serving 4 to 6 people depending on portion sizes.
Difficulty Level
Intermediate – Requires basic skills in meat handling, rolling, and baking. Not suitable for complete beginners but manageable with careful attention to detail.
Allergen Information
- Contains gluten (bread roll)
- Contains dairy (cheese, cream)
- Contains eggs
- Contains meat (ham, beef)
Dietary Preferences
This recipe is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans. It can be adapted for low-carb diets by reducing or omitting the bread roll and increasing the meat or cheese quantities.
Course
Main course, hearty entrée
Cuisine
German
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| 375 g minced meat (mixed, e.g., beef and pork) | 375 grams |
| Salt | to taste |
| Pepper | to taste |
| 1 small onion | 1 small onion, finely chopped |
| 2 eggs | 2 large eggs |
| 1 stale bread roll (or similar bread product) | 1 roll, shredded or crumbled |
| Curry powder (optional, for seasoning) | to taste (optional) |
| 7 slices cooked ham | 7 slices | 7 slices processed cheese (e.g., cheese slices) |
| 2 cups heavy cream | 2 cups |
| 1/2 cup water | 1/2 cup |
| 1 large tube (or jar) of tomato paste | 1 large tube or about 3 tablespoons |
| Some dried thyme | A pinch or about 1 teaspoon |
| Additional salt and pepper | to taste |
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Meat Mixture
Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (approximately 392°F). In a large mixing bowl, add the ground meat—preferably a mixture of beef and pork for optimal flavor. Incorporate the finely chopped onion, eggs, shredded bread roll, and spices such as salt, pepper, and optional curry powder for a subtle depth of flavor. Using a spatula or your hands, thoroughly knead the mixture until all ingredients are evenly combined. The goal is to develop a cohesive, pliable meat mixture that can be shaped without falling apart. Season to taste, and adjust with additional salt or pepper if needed.
Step 2: Forming the Roulades
Divide the meat mixture into seven equal portions. Roll each portion into small, compact cylinders or roll shapes, roughly 3 to 4 inches long and 1 inch in diameter. These will be your roulade bases. Take each cooked ham slice and lay it flat on a clean surface. Place a slice of cheese (such as processed cheese) on top of the ham, covering most of the surface. Carefully lay one of the meat rolls on top of the cheese-covered ham, then gently roll the ham and cheese together, encasing the meat roll within. To secure the rolled roulades, insert a wooden toothpick or small skewer through the center, or use small kitchen twine, ensuring they are tightly sealed but not overly constricted to prevent tearing during baking.
Step 3: Arranging in the Baking Dish
Arrange the prepared roulades seam side down in an even layer inside a shallow baking dish or ovenproof casserole. This positioning allows the sauce to envelop the roulades during baking, adding flavor and moisture. Space them apart slightly to prevent sticking and facilitate even baking. Once all roulades are arranged, set aside while preparing the sauce.
Step 4: Making the Creamy Tomato Sauce
In a mixing bowl or a small jug, whisk together the heavy cream, water, tomato paste, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to taste; the sauce should be rich and flavorful, balancing acidity from the tomato paste with the creaminess of the heavy cream. Ensure the mixture is smooth and well combined. Pour this sauce evenly over the roulades in the baking dish, covering them completely. The sauce will create a luscious, savory gravy during baking, infusing the meat with moisture and flavor.
Step 5: Baking
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake uncovered at 200°C (392°F) for approximately 60 minutes. During this time, the roulades will cook through, internal temperature reaching a safe level, and the sauce will thicken slightly, forming a delicious, bubbly coating. For even browning, you can turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes if you desire a slightly crispy top, but keep a close watch to avoid burning.
Step 6: Serving
Once baked, carefully remove the roulades from the oven. Remove the toothpicks or twine and plate them carefully, ensuring they stay intact. Spoon the creamy tomato sauce over the roulades and serve hot. This dish pairs beautifully with cooked rice, which acts as the perfect base to soak up the flavorful sauce. Additionally, you could serve with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables to complete the meal.
Preparation Tips
- Ensure the meat mixture is well kneaded to develop good cohesion, preventing the roulades from falling apart during baking.
- Use cold ingredients (like eggs and meat) to keep the mixture firm and easy to shape.
- For neater rolls, slightly chill the meat mixture before shaping. Refrigerating the formed roulades for at least 15 minutes helps them hold their shape better during baking.
- If you prefer a more substantial filling, add chopped herbs or spices to the meat mixture.
- Feel free to substitute different cheeses or ham types based on your preference or what you have available.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 450 kcal |
| Protein | 30 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 20 grams |
| Fat | 28 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 12 grams |
| Sugar | 3 grams |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
Tips and Tricks
- For a more pronounced flavor, add minced garlic or fresh herbs like parsley or chives into the meat mixture.
- Use high-quality, fresh ingredients for better taste and texture.
- If you’re short on time, you can assemble the roulades in advance and refrigerate them until ready to bake, allowing flavors to meld.
- To make the sauce thicker, simmer it uncovered on the stovetop for an additional 10 minutes before pouring over the roulades.
- For a gluten-free option, omit the bread roll or substitute with ground almonds or gluten-free bread crumbs.
Add-ons
- Chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives, or dill) sprinkled over the finished dish for added freshness.
- Grated cheese or a dash of paprika for a smoky flavor on top before serving.
- Cooked vegetables like carrots or green beans served on the side.
- Spicy mustard or a spicy tomato sauce can be served alongside for those who enjoy a kick.
Side Dishes
- Steamed or boiled rice, which complements the creamy sauce and absorbs flavors beautifully.
- Mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for a comforting, carbohydrate-rich accompaniment.
- Freshly baked crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping into the sauce.
- Steamed or roasted vegetables, such as carrots, green beans, or asparagus, to add color and nutrients.
Improvements
- Add a splash of white wine or marsala to the sauce for a more nuanced flavor profile.
- Use prosciutto instead of regular ham for an Italian twist.
- Stuff the roulades with sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra texture and flavor.
- For a crispy top, sprinkle grated cheese or breadcrumbs and broil for a few minutes after baking.
Save and Store
Leftover roulades can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to preserve moisture and flavor. To freeze, wrap each roulade tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 180°C (356°F) until heated through, or microwave on low power.
FAQ
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the roulades and cover them in the sauce, then refrigerate for a few hours or overnight before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for quick assembly on the day of cooking.
Can I substitute the cheese or ham?
Absolutely. You can use different varieties like Swiss, Gouda, or aged cheddar for cheese, and turkey or roast beef slices instead of ham. Adjust flavors accordingly to suit your taste.
Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
If you omit or replace the bread roll with a gluten-free alternative, the dish can be adapted for gluten-sensitive or celiac individuals. Ensure all ingredient labels are checked for gluten content.
Conclusion
Schinken-Hack-Rouladen is a wonderful example of hearty German cuisine that combines simple ingredients into a flavorful, elegant dish. Its versatility makes it suitable for various occasions, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. The rich, creamy sauce enhances the meat’s natural flavors, while the ham and cheese add satisfying layers of taste and texture. With careful preparation and attention to detail, you can master this dish and impress your family and friends with a homemade classic. For the best results, use high-quality ingredients and follow the steps meticulously. Love With Recipes hopes you enjoy making and savoring these delicious roulades—your new favorite comfort food.